Looking out into the sea of tents and emotional faces, co-chairman William Sherry said this year's event was particularly poignant as the American Cancer Society recently celebrated its 100th birthday.

Sherry said he's hoping the organization won't be needed 100 years from now.

"Hopefully by the end of this century even, we'll have a world without cancer," he said.

Conroy said this year's relay featured a number of seasoned participants along with quite a few first-timers.

"It really does take an army to get this thing going," she said.

Whether dressed in outlandish costumes while strolling laps around the track or lighting paper lanterns in memory of loved ones who have died, the Relay for Life is all about creating unforgettable moments.

Afternoon became evening and evening became morning as the participants rallied around the track, with each hour featuring different themes and costumes such as pirates, zombies, beachwear and sports team apparel.

T Bones Great American Eatery sponsored a special dinner for area cancer survivors, while Canobie Lake Park offered a few of its most popular acts, including Justin Bieber impersonator Levi Mitchell.

By Sunday morning, the hungry group was eager to eat homemade pancakes courtesy of the Salem Fire Department.aguilmet@newstote.com